The anaerobic baffled reactor is used as pretreatment, to remove solids from the waste stream. The waste then moves to two reactor tanks in series. The aeration of the incoming faecal sludge in the a reactor tanks leads to the breeding of bacteria that metabolize the organic content (COD/TOC (Total Organic Content)) together with the oxygen, turning the organic content into a gas (carbon dioxide).

The supernatant from the two reactor tanks is transferred to a settling tank, where the remaining solids are separated. The supernatant of the settling tank is then passed through a glass bead filter, which is regularly backwashed, for the removal of parasites and parasite eggs. Finally, the liquid is disinfected by chlorine or UV. Sludge from the settling tank is added to the reactor tank. Reactor tank sludge is treated by anaerobic digestion or lime treatment.

The plant is located next to a creekline that has been widened. The site has yet to be flooded, however potential flooding could occur in large rainfall event (e.g. 1 in 50 years).

The unit does not produce strong odours or attract insects but it should be as far from settlement as possible while still allowing for efficient delivery of faecal waste.

Fencing and security are needed for health and safety and theft prevention.

A fully functional faecal sludge quality laboratory is a requirement for this unit.